In the song 'Dalesman's Litany', the references are as follows (so I was taught). Halifax, in the eighteenth century, had a unique way of executing people - it had its own guillotine, which was perhaps unique in Britain. As far as Hull is concerned, this was a reference to the activities of the press gang, who were very active there and in Newcastle too. It appears that the sailors on the collier brigs were especially prized by them.

Regards,
Train Guard.